Welcome to the FUTURE!

The PublicFutures BLOG keeps you current on the latest research and thinking on major trends, policy shifts, 'hot topics', and evolving perspectives about the Future.
Be sure to subscribe to the RSS or get email updates so you are kept up-to-date on all the latest posts.

Share the FUTURE with the world!

Learn more at our Company Site

The DOW exceeded 26,000 for the first time on the morning of January 16, signaling for many the promise of a financially strong 2018. The market ebbed to 25,792 by the end of the day then plummeted 1,175 points on February 5 and another 1,033 points on February 8, finally moving back up to 24,601 by the close on 2/12 and has since ebbed and flowed until coming to roost at 25,029 today (2/28). This general correction was predicted and, while nerve-wracking, the market is up over 280% since 2009 and business is thriving, so the level of faith, hope and enthusiasm for further bounty should remain reasonably high.

Among the cheers, however, there are those who remain skeptical that this New Year will be much different than a tumultuous, unique and generally unstable 2017. Human beings tend to seek stability, certainty and the known. While there are those few souls who enjoy chaos, unrest, bickering and outright conflict, most prefer steady personal, family and career progress in an atmosphere characterized by harmony, good will, trust, and courtesy. From a national perspective, it would appear that various aspects of the past year will carry into 2018…and many of those carry-forwards will remain caustic, disruptive and deeply troubling.

That is not to say that all hope is lost for this year. On the contrary, a lot will be settled this year, bringing greater clarity, more faith and a measure of optimism. For all practical purposes, new tax reform legislation, while doing the middle class few favors, brings new options for business—whether repatriating overseas capital, building new facilities or adding employees. And, there is even hope that higher wages will be an added benefit to much lower corporate tax rates. Of course, tax and fiscal accountability experts are suggesting that, while we ride this new wave of prosperity and cash flow, the darker side of revenue depletion quickly leads to exceptional deficits and the federal government’s inability to retire debt without significantly reducing Social Security and Medicare.

During the fourth quarter of 2017, dozens of polled economists from America’s top universities were virtually all concerned about the proposed (now real) tax cuts due to the short- and longer-term effects of reducing operating revenues at a time when population growth, social needs, deteriorating infrastructure, security and other needs are escalating. Additionally, support for education, environmental protection, public health, basic and applied science, national parks, and many other programs have already been or are being seriously reduced. Their deep concern is the lack of thoughtful planning, careful analysis and multilateral collaboration. Whim and fantasy do not foster prudent reform, especially in the U.S. where the level of complexity is enormous. This is not to say reform isn’t good or warranted; what I am saying here is that there is a difference between scalpel and ax, and certainly between uninformed hacking and wise, calculated curtailment.

As a nation, we have entered a new era. But it is not an era with a positive seminal force, like the end of a world war, space travel, civil rights, or a new, shining vision of what America could be. The past eighteen months have introduced more divisive and accusatory language, more ethnic and social disunity, greater financial inequity, and more international disharmony than at any point in the past century. Historians, such as Douglas Brinkley, Doris Kearns Goodwin, David McCullough, Ken Burns, William Chafe, Joseph Ellis, David Blight, H.W. Brands, Edna Medford, and dozens of others have spoken eloquently about the devolution of the Office of the President since November 2016. As of this writing, hundreds of historians and economists from both major political parties have signed petitions warning that continued abuse of power will erode America’s ability to thrive, not just economically, but as a beacon of unity, hope and global leadership.

Embracing reality as we enter this year, it might be difficult to not let the clutter of 2017 contaminate an otherwise optimistic vision. In my view, a combination of balance and careful analysis is the most important ingredient of success. Financial markets are embracing opportunities for expansion, consumer confidence and motivation is high, automobile and housing markets are strong, trade remains decent, and America is still attractive to foreign investors. The number of small businesses is escalating, innovation is rampant (think SpaceX, Tesla, and a host of rapidly growing industries- solar, electronics, telecommunications, healthcare, human services, security, etc.), and humans continue to pursue greater connectivity. Certainly, it is important to retain a calm, informed perspective, understanding that, where there is conflict and uncertainty, there are also opportunities and benefits for those who are willing and prepared.

Clearly, the pace is accelerating far beyond many citizens’ ability to cope, understand or keep pace. The result is often backlash…and a tendency to retreat or remain static. Many are going backward, unable to accept rampant change or the importance of continuous improvement. Regardless of personal decisions, the nation is strong and, even though society is being challenged, it will ultimately endure. Intuition and data indicate that there are some intense challenges ahead. However, there will also be many opportunities to understand, grow, improve, and evolve. As we face forward, the best advice is to seek truth, verify fact, and commit to kindness, goodwill and acceptance. This is our nation. If it is to write a new chapter in its history, let’s make sure it is one that future sons and daughters embrace while celebrating our courage to stand for the fundamental values that have always made America great.

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).

It would appear that the average citizen rarely reflects on questions pertaining to whether they are realistic, live in the ‘real world’ or are sensitive to what is happening around them. Witnessing sometimes harsh reality is not understanding its impact on people, the community or society in general. Nomadland, the marvelous new book by Jessica Bruder (W.W. Norton, 2017) reveals the tender but tough underbelly of America, but does so in a way that pays tribute to the millions of people who no longer live at fixed addresses associated with brick and mortar homes. Rather, they are the new nomads who, by choice or circumstance live in vans, motorhomes, truck campers, cars, old busses, tents or SUVs. Numbering in the millions, this growing segment of society is not what they may appear, and, in some ways, may provide a glimpse of what lies ahead for a society characterized by escalating inequality, declining job skills, and an evolving global workplace.

Bruder spent five years experiencing the nomadic life, living in her own van for months on end, while befriending many ‘houseless’ people who have evolved into a broad and amazingly supportive, peaceful and productive subculture. She weaves multiple stories around a theme of self-reliance, optimism, harmony, hard work, and acceptance of an emerging and redefined American dream. It was not the dream most embraced when young, but it remains energized by common purpose, camaraderie, necessity and practical application.

While one might imagine this story is about the dregs of society, nothing could be further from the truth. It is amazing how many nurses, professors, administrators, teachers, craftsmen, and virtually every conceivable type of working person is represented in this growing cohort. Homes lost through the market crash, upside down home mortgages, medical emergencies (theirs or family members’), evolving workplace requirements, downsizing, and natural business cycles gave way to less expensive and more adaptable housing. More critically, this includes mobile housing that can be moved to locales where work is available and transient labor is both acceptable and cherished.

For those who constantly or at least occasionally consider what the future might hold, one might wonder if this rapidly growing trend portends a much more pervasive social reality. While these ‘workers on wheels’ for the most part remain gainfully employed, at least seasonally, could it be that, as housing prices rise, industry evolves, and living costs escalate, more U.S. citizens will downsize to a mobile, more adaptive and cheaper lifestyle?

There is another series of questions associated with those raised by Bruder, as she sought motive, circumstance and rationale for the trend toward houseless, mobile people. For those of us raised by a conservative family that preached conservation, self-reliance, self-sufficiency, and saving for retirement, there is a natural tendency to wonder how and why these people found themselves in circumstances that required losing a home, not being able to afford one, having zero savings or just being totally unprepared for challenging times. Certainly, there are unforeseen circumstances involving medical costs, job loss, stock market reversals, recessions, etc., but Bruder’s reporting indicates the vast majority of working and non-working campers lacked adequate foresight and discipline to properly prepare. Even saying this sounds narrow, cruel and judgmental, but good fortune indeed favors the prepared.

A November 2017 McKinsey report provides a sweeping review of what the future of work will mean for jobs, skills and wages. Similar reports have been compiled for generations and, when taken seriously, can provide parameters, guidelines and cautionary examples of how to prepare. It is one thing to celebrate self-reliance once a home is lost, bank accounts are drained and you’re living in a 1996 Winnebago. It is another to foresee opportunity and emerging challenges and construct a life that ensures, to the extent possible, multiple opportunities and options backed by several fail-safe mechanisms.

Looking toward a reality-based future, a January 2017 McKinsey report* raised several key questions:
• What impact will automation have on work?
• What are the possible scenarios for employment growth?
• Will there be enough work in the future?
• What will automation mean for skills and wages?
• How do we manage the upcoming workforce transitions?

*Jobs Lost, Jobs Gained: Workforce Transitions in a Time of Automation

While I loved Bruder’s book and encourage everyone to read it, I would also raise questions regarding after the fact human interest stories and celebrating self-sufficiency and survivorship after one’s life no longer has the characteristics historically considered ‘normal.’ Even though it sounds paternal, the central preemptive questions would be: Why did you put yourself in this position in the first place? Were there options and opportunities to seek other alternatives, or was it just time to redefine the concept of freedom and concept of community? Keep in mind that many people retire, sell their homes and hit the road, seeking freedom from work, supervision, deadlines and the many restrictions, costs and expectations that accompany homes and community life.

The tale of lost jobs in the wood products industry is one often told in the Pacific Northwest. While cautionary, this story is also instructive regarding what happens when one fails to prepare. For over twenty years beginning in the 1980s, there were studies followed by admonitions that sawmills were going to close; that the industry was evolving and jobs would be lost. Retraining was widely recommended and offered by many companies with assistance from federal and state agencies, but few took advantage. When the mills closed, many, many people were out of work and many never recovered. Why didn’t they move into a new profession? Training was subsidized or paid in full, but many ignored the signs, embracing instead a posture of ‘it won’t happen to me,’ or believing absolutely that ‘management’ was merely seeking wage concessions.

Finger pointing and blame became an obsession and way of life. As one who has worked with coal miners and consulted onsite at large coal mines, I can attest that the same is true with the very predictable and predicted decline of jobs throughout that industry. Industrial evolution is well-proven and has been a fact of life for hundreds of years. Like biological organisms, businesses, industries and institutions are subject to a Darwinian process.

Nomadland is much more than a review of an emerging social, cultural and economic phenomenon. It is both a mirror reflecting modern times and portal through which we can view essential questions about forces that are unraveling American society. We all applaud self-sufficiency, self-reliance and the innate search for freedom. With study and reflection, we should all explore and understand those patterns that are accelerating the growing tendency to seek a freer, less expensive and more spiritual normal. But, at least for some and based on much of Bruder’s reporting, Janis Joplin might have said it best: ‘Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.’

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).

There is always a personal aspect to short essays and shared thoughts, but never has the social, political and cultural environment been so loaded with parallel reasons to express ideas and simultaneously run for the hills. Personally, over many months I have found myself withdrawing from my usual tendency to share various positions and at least raise what seem to be sensible questions. For this, I have experienced a growing discomfort and measure of shame.

The reactive tendency to shut down is generally due to the current political stupidity, rancor and circus atmosphere and concurrent abandonment of principle, good will, courtesy and foresight generally reflected by this administration and many in congress. There are so many examples of egregious misbehavior, poor judgement, and outright lies that one is almost overwhelmed regarding what to say and how to say it. Anger, frustration, disbelief and dismay converge to create an inertia I have rarely felt.

Based on experience, it is clear to me that a group of smart, experienced and insightful professionals from key industries, associations and professions could convene to create a long-term solution to America’s healthcare crises. Given the latitude, such a group of non-politically motivated professionals from essential disciplines- insurance, medical professionals, healthcare institutions, academia, social services, non-profits, government agency/ process professionals and the business community could create a path forward in 3 to 6 months.

This country needs a clear, stable, encompassing and durable plan for healthcare…one that is not guided by political party, motivated by power or financial gain, and certainly not energized by a posture of ‘getting even’ with or destroying the legacy of a previous administration. Other than congress, virtually every element of this society is capable of convening to solve problems—especially if those solutions benefit the country and are in the best common interest of all Americans. It happens every day. People identify issues, define challenges, conduct analysis, pose various solutions and, ultimately, solve problems in a manner that derives the best for all parties.

The same is true of America’s deteriorating infrastructure. There are professionals in both government and industry who have already posed prudent fiscal, logistic and project plans that would allow America to slowly and responsibly rebuild every aspect of its aging infrastructure—ports, highways, airports, bridges, roads, water and waste systems, etc. While many challenges must be addressed by state and local jurisdictions, a national master plan would help. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has published an annual infrastructure report with thoughtful recommendations. Such reports are not prepared for personal, organizational or professional gain…they are developed with a serious and abiding concern for the future.

Whether considering foreign relations, infrastructure, taxation, healthcare, education, immigration, or any current challenge, there are many talented people who are motivated to serve without political or personal gain. In America, especially at the congressional level, once party politics is introduced, communication, shared data, cooperation and collaboration falter. Just listening to endless interviews and associated finger pointing, accusations, blaming and senseless babble has been enough to make me believe that decline is real and irreversible. Given that, perhaps a life of solitude is preferable…

I am and have always been apolitical. I vote for the best candidate, based on everything I read and study. And, I have historically gone back many years in a review of each candidate to arrive at a conclusion. To be sure, at times there are no stellar candidates and I have occasionally chosen poorly. It seems like truly gifted managers, thinkers, and collaborators won’t participate in the current political debacle that is much worse than it has ever been in my lifetime. I am not a fan of political parties and have grown more fearful of those who pledge allegiance to a party ‘platform’ rather than commit to a collaborative long-term vision and fact-based analysis.

On this note, it appears that the current administration has fostered a concerted effort to abuse factual data, whether related to climate change, economic growth over the previous eight years, unemployment data, polling results, or anything else that does not support a personal, ego-driven agenda. For the great many Americans who read, study, analyze, consider facts, and are open to thoughtful dialogue, there should be deep concern about autocratic, ego-centric behavior that is rarely supported by data. Read the ASCE report on America’s infrastructure; read The Water Will Come, by Jeff Goodell; read the many excellent data compilations from the Earth Policy Institute, which merely report information about deforestation, glacial erosion, temperature escalation, declining water supplies, starvation levels, and the loss of both plant and animal species. It’s just data…gathered and reported. Draw your own conclusions.

I suppose the message here is that I am returning to the Public Futures Blog because I can’t sit by idly and accept deflection, corrosion, corruption and loss of momentum. I believe in business enterprise, durable infrastructure, wise foreign relations, national security, fair taxes for all, accessible healthcare, preservation of parks, wetlands and wilderness, prudent immigration policies and a strong, affordable educational system.

Progress in these and other areas requires leadership, and it is time to seriously reflect on what that means to America. Malignant narcissism, bombast, name calling and lying is not leadership. Even the most difficult problems can be solved by those willing to represent the common interests of all Americans. That requires commitment to a future vision and dedication to the ideals of this republic. Let’s return to that commitment.

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).Continue reading →

Earth, wind, fire and water… forces of nature that remain immune to mankind’s ability to fully control, much less predict. While allegations, distrust and pettiness continues in Washington D.C., millions of people are dealing with the stark realities of hurricanes, tropical storms, floods and wildfires.

These natural disasters provide a stark contrast to name calling, posturing and other elective foolishness that passes for leadership in America. Those who have lost their homes to wind, flood or fire are unconcerned about building a wall, jousting with North Korea, climate policy disputes or whether the Iran nuclear deal was strong enough. They need drinking water, food, shelter and the opportunity to recover. Maslow was right, when push comes to shove, the focus is on basic needs required for survival.

As of this writing, the 22 separate fires burning in California; 5,570 homes and other structures have been totally destroyed; over 40 are confirmed dead and well over 200 remain missing. The death toll will surely rise. Over 100,000 have been evacuated but fires continue unabated, even with over 8,000 firefighters working 20 hour days and the very best aircraft, trucks and technology at their disposal. This week, high winds, enormous fuel stocks and arid conditions promise to continue a disaster that will have consequences far beyond 2017. The cost, yet to be estimated, will run into billions.

In addition to California, Montana, Oregon and Idaho fires, all of which will have serious economic consequences and produce untold human heartache, the U.S. has encountered a hurricane season unlike any on record. While early predictions were for a mild hurricane season, there have been at least 14 hurricanes and tropical storms so far this year. The season, stretching from June 1 through November 30, continues to produce unsettled weather and unique patterns that are establishing a new baseline for future expectations.

The most revealing data was represented in a graphic comparing the size of Hurricane Irma to Hurricane Sandy which hit the Atlantic coast in 2012. Due to demonstrably warmer ocean water, hurricane Irma was fully three to ten times larger than Sandy (or Andrew, Katrina or Harvey) with a diameter much broader and longer than the entire state of Florida.

The growing concern, expressed by meteorologists during the storm, is that warming oceans are producing larger and more violent storms- a phenomena predicted over ten years ago. This bodes ill for the millions who live on or near the coast or on a Caribbean island, and places the entire Gulf and Atlantic coasts in jeopardy. And, by the way, as of 10/12/17 Ophelia is building in the Atlantic- the 10th consecutive hurricane this year.

So What?

Compounding human suffering and loss of life, there is a growing uncertainty regarding how one might live, build a business enterprise and thrive in areas prone to wildfires, tornados, floods and hurricanes. While tornados are highly localized, floods, wildfires and hurricanes cover hundreds of miles, cutting a broad swath through farms, cities and rural areas. Nothing is immune to a 175 mile per hour storm that dumps a trillion gallons of water. Or a fire, such as we are seeing in Napa and Sonoma Counties, that consumes entire cities, farmland, residential communities, businesses, parks, and infrastructure.

Cost of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Nate (landfall on October 8) is expected to exceed $200 billion. But those costs are associated with rebuilding structures. There are significant hidden, or at least neglected costs associated with resident out-migration, loss of workers, businesses that close their doors, and the many unknown people and enterprises that elect to not visit or relocate to those affected areas… especially those that have had serial incidents resulting in death, disease, hardship and costly recovery efforts.

Over the next several years, tourists might elect to avoid denuded, recovering St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands or the Dominican Republic. Turks and Caicos is ruined…why visit? The loss of this primary revenue source will further devastate the Caribbean Islands hit by recent storms and will certainly cast doubt on those areas’ ability to return to anything resembling what was previously normal.

Meanwhile, the Gulf Coast of Texas and southern Louisiana, hit by Harvey, will also incur huge rebuilding costs and will experience at least some out-migration of families and businesses. There is already a skilled labor shortage, and it will only get worse. Full recovery may take over five years. Keep in mind that several areas of southern Louisiana have not recovered from Katrina (2005), which killed over 1,800 and has to date cost over $108 billion.

For the U.S., there are several serious underlying questions. With the American Society of Civil Engineers U.S. infrastructure grade remaining at a weak ‘D’ and the price tag to just bring America’s infrastructure back to acceptable safety/ operational standards is projected at $1.2 trillion, how will this nation afford an additional $200 billion? And, what if the elements similarly exhibit their fury in 2018 with more hurricanes, floods and fires? Even more reason to rethink rebuilding. Why spend the money if it will just happen again and again?

Benefits to DIY companies, like Lowe’s and Home Depot, local contractors, and both skilled and unskilled laborers notwithstanding, the downside to insurance companies, general business communities, tourism, and families will continue to escalate as long-term affects become manifest. FEMA, by all accounts, has done reasonably well. However, as prepared as it was, that agency has drastically insufficient funding to cover its costs. Likewise, fighting fires across the west is tremendously expensive and not a single local fire department, state or federal agency has adequate funds. So, at a time when blather about reduced taxes is sure to escalate during Q4, wise, prudent business thinkers should wonder where the money will come from to pay for all the cleanup and recovery efforts—just to get back to some semblance of normal.

Citizens from every strata and circumstance have rallied to help. Money, manual labor, equipment, supplies, blood, and every conceivable contribution has provided a silver lining during serial disasters. But, once the initial adrenalin subsides, and the news becomes old, who will be there to help? Where will the money come from? How will this season of the elements impact national and regional economies? How will the stock market ultimately be affected? We believe there must be a holistic view, with better long-range planning and budgeting, integrated with realistic calculations involving weather patterns. If more fires, floods and hurricanes are the new normal, and similar seasons lie before us, will we be ready? Or, even though they are predicted, will we react with annual surprise?

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).

The circus atmosphere surrounding many of America’s presidential election cycles has a tendency to abate once a new administration is in place and the rich talent pool of established veterans is assembled. Regardless of party affiliation, Washington has many seasoned, motivated patriots who are caring, connected and deeply dedicated to prosperity, security and global harmony. So far, a pattern of deflection and chaos has prevailed.

There is a much more profound game afoot here. While discontent, distrust, allegations and paranoia seem to be the primary drivers of this evolving administration, questions about trade, public health, infrastructure, international respect, climate change, and economic well-being loom ever larger. This is not to say that four months is enough time to foster major events or significant change, but one would expect more clarity about where we are going, key priorities, why they were chosen and how the country will proceed toward established goals. Whipping up generally nonsensical health care legislation in the House is not ideal progress.

The Senate now promises to eviscerate the House offering and replace it with something more workable, at least according to those senators willing to share. Unfortunately, the committee assembled to accomplish this has no women members and seems destined to battle over party-centric ideology rather than real improvement in the ACA. One would think they would take note that every major hospital, medical professional, physician, senior citizen and social services organization in America has criticized the House bill.

The deeper question here is about vision. While symbolism, rhetoric and bombast might for some reflect progress, it merely obfuscates the lack of vision, planning and long-term strategic intent. No corporation or voluntary organization would dream of managing its affairs in this way. Blather about putting coal miners back to work, bringing millions of manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. and demanding greater trade equity from established trade partners is both vain and foolish. Even neophyte economists will explain why and how an economically connected planet, costs for natural gas vs. coal and predictable economic cycles must guide policy decisions and, one would hope, promises.

Historians will look back in not too many years and marvel at the idiocy of building a wall between two friendly nations that are socially connected trade partners and long-time collaborators. While there are some issues with immigration, the data clearly show a decline in illegal immigration over the past several years and the value of a cooperative policy framework that works for the people of both countries. A 1,900 mile wall will cost wellover $20 billion—money that could be spent for tax reform, education, health care, better airports and seaports, greater cyber security, and a reduction in the number of substandard bridges and roadways. Misallocation of precious resources at a time of growing federal debt is not only unwise, it is ignorant and unethical.

Instead of laughable pontifications and promises, is there a sensible long-term vision? For instance, how will America address the destruction of the seas? The ocean’s bounty, once a miracle of evolution, is now in peril. In the November/ December 2013 edition of Foreign Affairs, oceanographer Jeremy Jackson termed the destruction of global ocean habitats “the rise of slime.” By that he meant that once complex oceanic ecosystems and food chains featuring large animals have devolved into simple systems dominated by microbes, jellyfish, and disease (see Great Barrier Reef). Reported by Alan Sielen, this article should be enough to galvanize the international community into action.

Is the new administration even aware of this enormous force that is now impacting the entire planet? More critically, where is the leadership required to deal with not only the oceans, but education, atmospheric pollution, pandemic safeguards, financial regulation, true and lasting healthcare reform and economic inequality? If you need another exclamation point, see the Time Magazine special report on infrastructure (April 10, 2017) entitled, ‘Dear Washington, We need to rebuild. Can you get your act together?’ by David Von Drehle.

Politics is not voodoo, with incantations, hexes, and illusion. We assume that politicians are elected to seek the best common good for all constituents. Keith Allred, prior to running for governor in Idaho a few years ago, directed a superb apolitical organization called The Common Interest. Its sole purpose was to foster bipartisan support for policies and legislation that would have positive impact on all citizens…focusing on the value gained for all people rather than special interests. Importantly, the primary driving force for all of that organization’s work was truth. Sharing information with a commitment to total honesty was the central value that provided a platform of openness and trust.

The ideal of veracity in all things must be embraced by both the administration and Congress. Organizations that fact-check news can vouch for most of its accuracy. So too can those organizations reviewing the accuracy of what comes from the White House. In other words, the word ‘fact’ is a self-defining word that is easy to verify.

Challenging those who deal in data (CIA, FBI, NSA) or report current events (Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Gannett, the Associated Press, etc.) is a fool’s errand. Certainly, there are editorials and opinion pieces, but those are separate from news reporting. As most working people already know, it is best to remain faithful to the truth…due to the ease with which credibility and trust can be lost. And, once lost, it is difficult to recover.

Inflamed rhetoric, policy discontinuity and factual disconnects are rapidly leading to global distrust and, more critically, loss of respect among valued allies. As previously reported in this space, many economists believe that the U.S. is in a natural economic cycle that is responding to resource depletion, an aging Baby Boomer population, product and industrial life cycles and rapidly advancing global competition. Some have recently predicted 2 to 2.5 percent GDP as the norm in the years ahead. Good managers assess reality (read Confronting Reality by Bossidy and Charan), then develop strategies and action plans. There is no denial, deflection, blaming, gaming, or incoherent grievances.

America needs a wise, thoughtful and workable vision. There are good people in Washington on both sides of the isle and more than a few good ideas. The Tip O’Neills, Henry Kissingers, and Everett Dirksens may be gone, but ample talent, drive and spirit remains. My question is, Will those individuals pander to their parties or to America? Will they rise above the pettiness, pranks and discontent and actually do something that matters, long-term, for all Americans?

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).

After less than twenty days post inauguration there were already skirmish lines forming all over the American landscape. Even approaching 100 days, most issues have been due to the new president’s style, mannerisms, and behavior while others are grounded in edicts, threats and executive orders that foster deep concerns for the future.

Perhaps the most telling event took place far below the radar of most citizens but heralded what might become one of this nation’s most profound platforms for evolution and, in some ways, revolution. As reported in Time Magazine in late January, one of the nation’s most influential Republican industrialists, Charles Koch, hosted a gathering of 550 powerful business leaders to discuss their level of support for the president’s various platforms, edicts, orders and actions that do not bode well for the American economy. As quoted in Time, Koch stated, “We cannot be partisan. We can’t say, O.K., this is our party, right or wrong.” His point throughout the conference was that many promises and opening actions launched from the Oval Office are contrary to good business practice and cannot possibly end well for the U.S. The most prominent point cited at the conference was the growing erosion of trade relationships, economic partnerships and global networks that many business leaders have developed over the past three to four decades.

In addition to the business community’s view that no one ever wins a trade war is a parallel view that cutting taxes, huge infrastructure projects, more military spending and the goody bag of promised changes would do nothing but drive the U.S. toward economic recession and potential depression. Among serious, experienced global business leaders there is resistance brewing. These are not seat of the pants operators, but America’s best, who operate according to strategic plans, are collaborative, understand diplomacy, and embrace the long view. Any business owner would have serious questions about how $1.2 trillion in infrastructure projects will be financed. New taxes? That would be curious in light of the promise to cut taxes. In other words, business professionals are already wondering how all the promises can be kept and who will pay.

In this context, we are moved to look over the horizon and make predictions regarding several areas that will be in flux during 2017 and beyond. Among the most remarkable phenomena is the current administration’s lack of understanding that we live in a republic that has evolved over 240 years. The new administration is not a ‘business turnaround’ where a new group of managers is brought in to reorganize a company according to their personal experience and perspectives. While certain changes in government would be welcome, there are processes, procedures and protocols that must be followed if the republic is to remain strong. The most obvious and already brewing dichotomy is between what was promised and what is possible, practical and wise. The potential for conflict and a continuing circus atmosphere is high.

There is high probability that the prospect of regulatory shifts, more government spending and a pro-business atmosphere will energize the economy. However, the question is how long it might last before reality strikes. As stated previously in this space, what goes up always comes down. Regardless how it is postured, we live on a connected planet with interconnected economies and it is both foolish and myopic to believe that America can force anyone to do anything, outside of armed conflict. The current economic environment is one of escalating competition, growing collaboration, and evolving symbiotic relationships. This is how the world works and other countries will continue to evolve, compete, and battle for economic relevance. America must do the same. It can’t dictate all the rules.

Sooner or later (bet on sooner), citizens will understand that the U.S. is not weak, vulnerable, passive, struggling, or economically doomed. This country has a vibrant economy, millions of new jobs have been added since 2010 (227,000 in January, 235,000 in February and a 4.7% unemployment rate), thousands of new business enterprises have been formed, new alliances have been created, and far fewer live in poverty. More, violent crime is down, new trading partners are at the table and consumer confidence has been quite high over the past two years. At some point, the citizenry will no longer buy into negative rhetoric. It’s difficult to complain when there is so much to celebrate.

Unfortunately, over the next year or several years, there may be less focus on national parks, the environment, occupational safety, free speech and equality. Immigration could be crippled for years, which could have a negative economic impact and health coverage, even if the Affordable Care Act is partially unraveled without a valid upgrade could dwindle for millions who now have coverage. In this review, keep in mind that policy evolution is how reform tends to happen…it is incrementally improved, not totally removed. It has taken years for Civil Rights and American with Disabilities legislation to become what it is today…improved rather than discarded.

I have noted earlier that bombast, threats and jingoistic retorts do little to improve relationships or forge alliances. Even small trade wars will negate years of improving global relationships and possibly devolve into global recession. Trust and mutual respect are integral elements if America is to build trading relationships that strengthen its economy while fostering long-term opportunity. If Koch and his colleagues are concerned, we should all be concerned.

There are enormous forces in play but it appears that some individuals do not understand that other countries have the sovereign right to compete, grow, seek and participate. Every sign points to continued slow global growth with many struggling economies. America will also experience slow growth, but it will be steady and sustainable if it is not derailed by foolish policies and the erosion of trading and security relationships. Unfortunately, there is significant potential for polarity among U.S. citizens, especially if the economy struggles, healthcare is restricted, there is stagnant job and wage growth and inflation begins to escalate.

2017 will see a new centering of America but it will be driven by polarity, at least until wisdom and leadership prevail. It will be a comical, frustrating and troubling period that will test this country’s will, values, and spirit. The vast majority of Americans treasure dignity, harmony, good will, diplomacy and true leadership. Sadly, the new administration has so far not reflected any of these characteristics, but you can bet they will become more precious in the months ahead.

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).

Whew! Am I glad that’s over! With all the misdirection, acrimony, illusion and pranks that became hallmarks of the presidential election, it is a wonder that things are generally peaceful as we enter mid-December. While wading through all the silliness and emotion, we still managed to get through the election and begin the process of returning to normalcy—or some facsimile thereof.

It remains a mystery as to how the electoral process became so volatile at a time when the data clearly show many positives. The unemployment rate is below 5 percent, corporate profits are up, housing prices are up, personal debt is down, savings are up, the housing market is strong, gas prices are relatively low and crude remains below $50. The auto industry is fully mobilized, the dollar is extremely strong, over 3 million people have worked their way out of poverty and, as of today, the DOW is above 19,700. Does anyone recall where we were eight years ago?

As noted previously, along with many positive data points, there are also troubling indicators that seem to fan the embers of discontent. Trade imbalances are high, immigration questions remain unanswered, security is an ongoing battle and both infrastructure and education have huge, looming gaps that must be addressed. The most interesting question pertains to how this dichotomy between positive and negative progress is so different from historic norms and why so many view with such jaundiced eyes the negative without acknowledging the positive? Perhaps it is merely human nature to focus on the bad and ignore the good, but regardless of the election outcome, America would have entered 2017 with enormous momentum and promise.

The specter of ‘populism’ has emerged as a newly energized and potent force for change. Of course the central unanswered question is whether that change will be positive or negative. Along with the U.S., Greece, France, Germany, Austria, Spain and a host of other countries have seen a resurgence of popular causes, mostly characterized by hostility toward elites and established institutions. But there has also been a trending toward nationalism, protectionism, racism and isolation. For those who study history and the evolution of societies, this is confounding and troubling.

A brief review will showcase Latin America’s experience with populism, especially in Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Cuba, Chile, Peru and others, where that populism led to revolt against historic norms and institutions and resulted in governments run by individuals who destroyed the fabric that sustained economies, social structures, industrial networks and cultural harmony. When evaluating countries that enjoyed major shifts via a populist revolt one will mostly find rampant poverty, economic shambles, social discord, and leaders who won support from the masses without the slightest concept of how to manage a government.

Ongoing research is now reflecting that the emergent populism that is fomenting change in America does not have economic roots even when rhetoric would point to inequality as a causative factor. Surveys are now telling us that it is something deeper and more symbolic, with the primary determinant being evolving American demographics. This, coupled with other noneconomic factors—gender, race, religion, location, family history, the environment, health, etc. has provided the genesis for discontent, paranoia, and distortions of reality. Or, at least the ignorance of other, more profound and positive forces that typically provide greater balance, perspective, economic opportunity and long-term cultural sustainability.

In other words, people are demanding higher wages, fewer regulations, lower taxes, less government, more jobs and greater border security and expecting newly elected leaders and the ‘government’ (which they feel is already too intrusive) to now deliver on those promises. But the underlying driving reality is that America has experienced a profound shift from 1946 to now and is continuing to evolve as other countries catch up to its economic capacity, industrial capability and competitive spirit. Growth in the U.S. and most western societies has been slowing for several years due to global competition, resource depletion and broad product availability across nations. While a populist platform might demand U.S. trade protections and negotiating more stringent trade agreements, reality tells us that free markets will ultimately decide who buys what from whom. There will be few options to ‘legislate’ economic behavior across borders. People will seek products from the best possible source and will trade with those sources. If U.S. companies are not competitive, the market will sort it out…not congress, and certainly not the president.

The deeper message here is that enormously powerful forces are at play across the global landscape. America is strong and capable, but must understand and adjust to variables it can’t control while managing those it can. The time for rhetoric and bombast is over. For America, this New Year will dawn with opportunities to pursue prudent options that take advantage of its many strengths. The question is whether there will be the insight, patience, tolerance and true leadership to take advantage of its current status and stature.

As with recent years, I see many avenues that could lead to prosperity, security, and sustainable enterprise. And, as always, it begins with each person’s unique vision, ability and willingness to focus on their own families and businesses with sensible strategies and thoughtful implementation plans. Regardless of the current wave of populism, life comes down to good will and acceptance, hard work, focus, and the Golden Rule. 2016 gave us quite a ride but now it’s time to buckle up for a New Year that promises to be exhilarating, challenging and very interesting.

With over four decades working in and with federal, state and local government, John Luthy understands public agencies. Known for his real world, straight talking style, he is a leading futurist specializing in city, county, state, and federal long-range thinking and planning. John is the author of Operations Planning: A Guide for Public Officials and Managers in Troubled Times, and The Strategic Planning Guide, both published by the International City/ County Management Association (ICMA). Reprints of his book, Planning the Future – A Guide to Strategic Thinking and Planning for Elected Officials, Public Administrators and Community Leaders (2010) has sold out several times. An innovative and dynamic presenter, John is frequently asked to speak and consult on how to prepare public organizations and communities for emerging challenges (public futures at http://www.futurescorp.com).